An African travel bucket list June 14th, 2017

An African travel bucket list

Almost everyone has created a bucket list and most times results in a collection of places to see before you actually ‘kick the bucket’. For many, travelling to incredible destinations means heading off on adventures you can’t have in your own backyard.

A popular option for many travellers is to one day go on a fabulous, wild safari. Allowing yourself into the wild to experience the bushveld, the animals and the adventures reserved mostly for Indiana Jones films, is a thrilling idea. And the continent of Africa offers so many different and unique adventure options, you’re truly spoilt for choice.

Here’s a safari bucket list that’ll see you experiencing the wildlife adventure of a lifetime no matter which destination you choose.

Skeleton Coast National Park

This national park is situated on the North-West coastline of Namibia and is extremely remote. It’s essentially one of the most beautiful deserts you could ever visit. This scenic environment is spread across 16 000 kms and includes incredible mountain ranges, canyons, and sand dunes. The coast is scattered with shipwrecks to explore where you’ll be treated to Cape Fur Seals and magnificent seabird colonies.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a waterfall on the Zambezi River situated at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It’s frequented all year round by tourists from all over the world. On the edge of the Victoria Falls, you’ll find Devil’s Pool which is best described as Africa’s ultimate infinity pool. Devil’s Pool can only be accessed when the rains have stopped. The dry season is between September and January each year. Between exploring the breathtaking Victoria Falls and daring to enjoy the Devil’s Pool, this type of adventure will be truly unforgettable.

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

If you’re looking for an experience that will deeply shift your perspective consider heading deep into the heart of South-West Uganda. The Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is situated in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and frequently visited by gorilla troops. You can track the gorillas and get to know the local Batwa Pygmies in a truly magnificent forest setting. This particular camp is considered to be one of the most remote destinations in Africa.

Mt Kilimanjaro

At 5, 985m, Mt Kilimanjaro is the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. It is one of the most popular climbs in the world as while you don’t need mountaineering experience you will need to be fit. This mountain is situated in Tanzania is a dormant volcano and is made up of three volcanic cones. You can expect to hike up to 10 hours per day but once you reach the summit you’re officially at the highest point in Africa. The views are magnificent even though the accommodation and camping facilities will require you to be prepared to really rough it.

Makgadikgadi Pans

The Makgadikgadi Pans of Botswana stretch across 12 000 square kilometres. This environment is an expansive open plain that houses no human habitation. The ground beneath your feet is hard, baked earth, and around you is nothing. This space is empty and exceptionally quiet. The silence is considered deafening but the experience has been described as spiritual. Situated South-West of the Okavango Delta and surrounded by the Kalahari Desert the pans are the remains of former Lake Makgadikgadi which dried up thousands of years ago.

Kruger National Park

The Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa. If you’re looking to experience wild animals in an up close and personal setting then the park will deliver. It is home to the Big Five and promises a wildlife experience that cannot be matched. The Kruger National Park is a must for all who enjoy immersing themselves in wildlife and if you are interested in enjoying some luxury, it offers incredible accommodation options.

Exploring Africa is such a treat. Heading out into the wild might not sound like a luxury, but escaping the hustle and bustle of city life could be just the break you’re after. This type of adventure can be enjoyed by the whole family. Many travel agents offer safari packages that are all-inclusive and will ensure that your adventure is well-organised and safe.